Vision Therapy in Downtown Seattle

Myopia FAQs

(206) 464-0472

1. What is Myopia?

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a common condition in which distant objects appear blurry while close-up objects remain clear. Myopia tends to progress until around the age of 21, and during this time, a child's vision deteriorates, often requiring more frequent updates of their corrective lenses.

young girl doing homework


girl in eye exam

2. What Causes Myopia Progression?

The exact causes of myopia progression are not fully understood, but several factors have been associated with it:

  • Myopia tends to run in families, so if parents are nearsighted, their children are more likely to develop myopia.
  • Extensive studying, reading, and activities that involve focusing on nearby objects can contribute to myopia progression.
  • The increasing use of electronic devices, especially when held close to the eyes, is thought to play a role in myopia development.
  • Spending less time outdoors may increase the risk of myopia progression.

3. Why is Myopia Progression a Concern?

The progression of myopia is concerning as it's strongly associated with an increased risk of ocular diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and retinal detachment later in life.


4. What If My Child Wears Glasses or Soft Contact Lenses?

Even if your child regularly wears glasses or soft contact lenses to correct their myopia, the condition may continue to progress. Conventional corrective methods often address symptoms but don't tackle the root cause, which involves the elongation of the eyeball.


5. How Can I Prevent My Child's Vision from Getting Worse?

To help prevent myopia progression, consider making lifestyle changes, including:

Reducing Screen Time: Limit screen time, and encourage breaks during prolonged use of digital devices.

Encouraging Frequent Breaks While Studying: Ensure your child takes regular breaks when studying or reading.

Increasing Outdoor Play: Encourage outdoor activities and playtime.

Adjusting Their Study Posture: Ensure proper posture during near work, avoiding sitting too close to screens or materials. 

Additional treatment may be necessary, depending on the level of your child’s myopia. Some of these options may include:

  • Atropine Drops
  • Orthokeratology (ortho-k)
  • Dual Focus Contact Lenses

6. What Is Orthokeratology?

Orthokeratology, or ortho-k, is a non-surgical procedure designed to reduce nearsightedness. It involves the therapeutic application of specially designed contact lenses to reshape the cornea, the front part of the eye, overnight. This can effectively correct nearsightedness and certain types of astigmatism.

Ortho-k offers a promising solution for managing progressive myopia while providing the freedom of being glasses or contact lens-free during the day. Clinical studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing myopia progression, thus reducing the risk of ocular diseases.


mom reading book to child

7. Is Myopia Management Suitable for Adults or Only for Children?

Myopia management strategies are often most effective when initiated during childhood, as this is when myopia tends to progress most rapidly. However, certain approaches, such as orthokeratology (ortho-k), may also benefit adults. It's crucial to consult your Broadway Vision eye doctor to determine the best approach for your specific situation.


8. How Often Should My Child's Eyes Be Examined for Myopia Progression?

Regular eye examinations are essential to monitor myopia progression. The frequency of these exams will depend on your child's age, myopia severity, and risk factors. Annual eye check-ups are generally recommended, but some cases may require more frequent visits.


9. Are There Any Side Effects or Risks Associated with Myopia Management Treatments?

Most myopia management treatments are safe and non-invasive, but awareness of potential side effects is essential. For instance, ortho-k lenses may cause temporary discomfort or dryness. Atropine eye drops may lead to increased sensitivity to light. Your Broadway Vision eye doctor will discuss these potential side effects and help you decide on the right approach for your child.


Meet our Myopia Management Specialist

Patient Reviews
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300 Reviews
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- Nov. 23, 2024
No wait. Friendly and knowledgable optician (din't catch his name unfortunately). Quick adjustments,... fixes for all my glasses.
- Nov. 21, 2024
I had a great experience at Broadway Vision where I had an eye exam with Dr. Hart. The location is ... easily accessible and the exam was thorough and professional. I left feeling confidant in knowing the status of my eyes.
- Oct. 29, 2024
I’ve brought my whole family here for eye exams for about 4 years. I have historically not liked g... oing to the eye doctor, and neither has my husband. But these folks are great! Dr. Ravuri really takes the time to explain everything thoroughly. I never feel like we are rushed. He asks all the right questions and does a thorough exam. I’m glad that they have retinal scanning so that we can look for any hidden issues and see the images while doctor Ravuri explains what we are looking at. The staff are great, too.
- Oct. 18, 2024
Peter was amazing helping me pick out new frames. Felt super comfortable trying on all the frames. H... e really made my experience. Thank you guys! Love the new glasses
- Aug. 30, 2024
I was in town and had a minor emergency and Broadway Vision went out of their way to help me out on ... short notice. I really appreciated how friendly everyone was, and they helped me out even though I don’t live here and am not a customer. Lovely storefront and staff. Thank you again for your help!
- Aug. 14, 2024
Had an eye exam and fitted for contacts. Great service, paid attention to the details and my optome... trist wanted me to have the perfect vision I need for my work.
- Aug. 04, 2024
I've been going here for years and I am always impressed with the level of care and great customer s... ervice!
- Jul. 23, 2024
I trust the doctors and the staff provide great service !!
- Jul. 16, 2024
(Translated by Google) Really friendly and quick replacement of broken rubber Located nearby Starbox... R* (Original) 정말 친절하고 신속하게 이탈된 rubber를 교체해줌 스타박스 R*근거리에 위치한
- Jul. 11, 2024
Ken and Dr. Ravuri were great! Very thorough and friendly! Been going here for years.
- Jul. 10, 2024
Professional staff and high quality service!
- Jun. 20, 2024
Fast friendly knowledgeable staff.
- Jun. 06, 2024
I have greatly appreciated the excellent care of Broadway Vision Source since I got my first ever gl... asses here eight years or so ago and being talked through the whole process by now retired professionals. However, I am disheartened to overhear that there is new ownership on the wind looking to get rid of the ability to have lenses made/managed in-house. Must new ownership always mean removing peoples incomes, skillsets, and tools from a very successful and respected business? For what, the sake of macro economic business efficiency at the cost of customer care, quality control, and delays? Would seriously hate to come back in a year and have to find a new one-stop optometrist because I’m dealing with new ownership milking a business for nickels at the cost of their employees day to day experience and My Experience as a patient. I’ll without my judgment until the day comes, but the worry remains. My thanks to the staff here, a business is just a name and a room without you.
- May. 30, 2024
Shared results in email and with PCP. Comprehensive and informative exam.
- May. 30, 2024
It was friendly and pretty quick to see the doctor.
- May. 16, 2024
I have been a patient of Dr. Matsunami for decades…he is an amazing healer! The staff at Broadway... Vision is top notch, friendly, and professional. You couldn’t ask for better eye care in the Seattle area.
- May. 02, 2024
Professional staff and very friendly and helpful as well. As a costumer I am very satisfied with the... ir service and will continue to visit them for years to come.
- Apr. 24, 2024
Perfect, on-time as always.
- Apr. 01, 2024
Everyone is so nice and helpful! Jason was a super big help getting thru the glasses process.
- Mar. 06, 2024
Great experience. I felt heard and had a thorough exam from very caring professionals. And I got a g... reat new pair of glasses!!!

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Myopia Management in Downtown Seattle

Our optometry practice in Downtown Seattle

Photograph of Syeda  Asad
Hours
  • Monday 9:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8:30 am - 7:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:30 am - 7:00 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am - 5:30 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • Aetna
  • EyeMed
  • VSP
  • Regence
  • Premera Blue Cross
  • Cigna
  • First Choice Health
  • Kaiser Permanente
  • HMA
  • Regence Group Administrators
  • Meritain Health

man adjusting glasses

10. Is Myopia Management Expensive, and Does Insurance Cover It?

The cost of myopia management can vary based on the chosen treatment method and location. Some treatments, like ortho-k, may involve initial higher costs but could reduce long-term expenses related to prescription updates and potential eye health issues. Schedule an appointment with Broadway Vision today to understand the specific costs and coverage options.

(206) 464-0472